VIDEO: MCR Christmas Light Switch-On

Jason Manford and Warwick Davis were on hand to help illuminate the city

THOUSANDS made their way to Albert Square on Friday 7 November for Manchester city centre's annual Christmas Lights Switch-On.

For generations of Mancunians, the lights switch-on has become a last tradition and has become the official start to Christmas for Manchester families.

For this year's show, Mancunian funny man, Jason Manford, was tasked with keeping the crowds on their toes with his homely brand of comedy before pushing the button of the city's Christmas lights.

Stars of the hit stage show, Shrek the Musical, brought the much loved swamp-ogre to the stage, while star of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Hollywood actor Warwick Davies, confirmed to the excited crowd that he will be featuring in the next Star Wars movie.

Shrek (Credit: Mark Waugh)

In association with Key 103, live performances included Britain’s Got Talent winners, Collabro, who delivered a wonderful rendition of Frank Sinatra's White Christmas to the thousand strong audience.

The night was opened by Printwork’s Street Dance competition winners, Superkidz. Familiar face and X Factor winner Shane Ward and new girl band The Piccadillys were also on hand to ready the crowds before the ten minute firework display.

Firework Display at Albert Square (Credit: Mark Waugh)

Cllr Pat Karney, Manchester Christmas spokesperson, said: "What an incredible night. It felt like the whole of Manchester had come down to Albert Square – thousands of people and of all ages – to help us welcome in Christmas 2014. All the acts were fantastic and the crowd has been brilliant.

"For generations of Mancunians, the lights switch-on has become a firm tradition and the true start to Christmas for Manchester families who love to join the fun, enjoy the show and look forward to the festive season.

“But this is only the beginning as Manchester will be transformed when the Christmas Markets return next Friday.”

Manchester’s Christmas Markets will open to the public next week on Friday 14 November, spreading across nine sites in the city centre with more than 300 stalls.